Gerrard hails super Cech as Europe's finest

Steve Gerrard has described Chelsea's Petr Cech as the best goalkeeper in Europe.

The Liverpool captain was denied a second-half equaliser by a stunning full-stretch save from Cech as his side lost the first leg of their Champions League semi-final.

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They will have to beat the keeper at Anfield next week to make the final in Athens, and Gerrard knows it will be a tough task.

He said: "Pepe Reina made a couple of good saves for us, but their keeper made a world-class save off me. I was running away to celebrate because I thought it was in. I don't think any other keeper in Europe would have got that. He made some top saves.

"There was a bit of frustration we didn't test him a little bit more but Chelsea are very good defensively. It makes them favourites to go through."

Cech will be vital to Chelsea as they seek to defend their lead at Anfield.

Head coach Jose Mourinho described the save from Gerrard as "unbelievable". But Cech's team-mates have grown accustomed to the high standards he achieves.

Frank Lampard said: "It was a great save but it was the sort of save you expect him to make as he is that good."

Meanwhile, Liverpool will have star midfielder Astrit Ajdarevic back in their side for tonight's FA Youth Cup Final second leg as they try to claw back Manchester United's 2-1 lead.